Cathedral of Saint Peter (Cattedrale di San Pietro)
Commissioned by Pope Clement VIII Aldobrandini, the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Frascati is one of the most iconic examples of late Renaissance and early Baroque religious architecture in the Castelli Romani.
The design was entrusted to architect Ottaviano Nonni, known as Il Mascherino, who chose a Greek cross layout with three aisles and eight altars. The splendid Baroque façade, crafted from local sperone stone and travertine, was later completed by Girolamo Fontana. It features two superimposed architectural orders and a central portal adorned with a high-relief by Bernardino Cametti, depicting Christ admonishing Saint Peter.
Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire:
A rare wooden crucifix dating back to the 11th–12th century.
A bronze crucifix containing another wooden crucifix, a gift from Pope Pius IV to Cardinal Bishop Henry Benedict Stuart, Duke of York.
Wall decorations by Annibale Angelini in the first chapel on the left aisle.
Behind the episcopal chair, The Handing of the Keys, a remarkable marble relief by Pompeo Ferrucci.
This cathedral, with its rich artistic heritage and symbolic architecture, is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that reflects Frascati’s historical ties with the Papal States and noble families like the Aldobrandini.
Church of the Gesù (Chiesa del Gesù)
The Church of the Gesù in Frascati stands as a remarkable testament to Jesuit influence in the region. The present structure was built at the end of the 17th century by expanding a smaller chapel originally dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This chapel belonged to the Jesuits, who had arrived in Frascati in 1560 — just two decades after the Society of Jesus was officially recognized by Pope Paul III.
The church was officially consecrated in 1773 by Cardinal Bishop Henry Benedict Stuart, Duke of York.
Designed with a single nave, the interior is richly decorated with late-Baroque frescoes, including depictions of Saint Ignatius, Saint Sebastian, and the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple. These works are attributed to the school of Andrea Pozzo, master of perspective and illusionistic painting.
The façade, inspired by the Church of the Gesù in Rome, is traditionally attributed to Pietro da Cortona. It features two side niches housing statues of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and Saint Francis Borgia. One of the most captivating elements is the trompe-l’œil dome — a painted illusion on canvas by Antonio Colli, a student of Andrea Pozzo, which gives the illusion of a true dome above the altar.
In the late 19th century, the church underwent extensive restoration. The flooring was designed and installed by Annibale Angelini, the frescoes were retouched by Cesare Dies, the roof was rebuilt, and the façade was carefully cleaned and preserved.
Today, the Church of the Gesù is one of Frascati’s most elegant sacred spaces — blending history, baroque artistry, and Jesuit tradition into a uniquely spiritual experience.
Church of Santa Maria in Vivario (San Rocco)
Also known as the Church of San Rocco, Santa Maria in Vivario is one of the most ancient and historically significant churches in Frascati. It was built over the ruins of a Roman villa’s fishpond (vivarium), from which it takes its name. Originally, this was the town’s cathedral, later replaced by the larger Cathedral of Saint Peter due to space constraints.
At the rear of the church stands a striking Romanesque bell tower from 1305, decorated with colorful glazed majolica tiles — a rare and precious example of medieval ceramic art in the region.
The interior features three naves divided by stone columns topped with carved marble capitals. The apse and the triumphal arch are adorned with beautiful late 15th-century frescoes, including a vivid depiction of Saints Sebastian and Roch — the patron saints of the city.
Santa Maria in Vivario also houses several ancient sarcophagi and Roman fragments, as well as a fascinating crypt that reveals layers of the site’s long and sacred history.
Just in front of the church, in the small square, visitors can admire an elegant octagonal fountain donated by Cardinal d’Estouteville in 1480. Today, the square is not only a historic landmark but also a lively meeting point in Frascati’s vibrant nightlife.
Aldobrandini Stables (Scuderie Aldobrandini)
Located in the heart of Frascati, the Aldobrandini Stables are a prime example of architectural restoration that harmoniously blends history and contemporary design. Originally built in the 17th century, the complex was redesigned by renowned architect Massimiliano Fuksas, who transformed the space into a modern cultural hub while preserving its historical essence.
Fuksas respected the original identity of the building by exposing structural walls and original materials, creating open, fluid areas that now serve as versatile exhibition and performance spaces.
Today, the Scuderie Aldobrandini house a permanent archaeological exhibition and function as a multifunctional cultural center, hosting events, theatrical performances, contemporary dance shows, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Ground Floor – Archaeology & Tuscolan Heritage
The ground floor features a fascinating collection of archaeological artifacts from the Roman Republican and Imperial periods through to the Middle Ages. Highlights include:
Inscriptions, urns, reliefs, and statues
A scale model display of the famous Tuscolan Villas
A niche showcasing sculptures celebrating the myth of Dionysus-Bacchus
Upper Floor – Auditorium & Events
Upstairs, a fully equipped auditorium regularly hosts concerts, theater productions, and cultural events, making the venue a cornerstone of Frascati’s artistic life.
Episcopal Palace of Frascati (Palazzo Vescovile)
The Episcopal Palace of Frascati is the official seat of the Tuscolan Diocese, and it stands on the site of the original medieval fortress around which the town of Frascati first developed. Its construction began under the pontificate of Pope Pius II Piccolomini (1458–1464) and was completed at the end of the 15th century by Cardinal Guillaume d’Estouteville.
In 1471, Pope Paul III Farnese granted the palace to the titular bishops of the Suburbicarian Diocese of Frascati. However, the official documentation of this concession was only recorded in the 18th century, during a major restoration campaign led by Cardinal Henry Benedict Stuart, Duke of York.
During this period, the interiors were richly decorated by artist Taddeo Kuntz, adding artistic value to the historical grandeur of the building.
The palace is a massive rectangular structure built from local sperone stone, characterized by two square towers and one circular tower. Inside, a covered portico supported by stone pillars surrounds a central courtyard, creating a harmonious architectural space that blends strength with elegance.
Still today, the Episcopal Palace plays a central role in Frascati’s religious and historical identity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s noble and ecclesiastical past.
Villa Aldobrandini (Belvedere)
Overlooking the town from a hilltop, Villa Aldobrandini is one of Frascati’s most famous landmarks. Built between 1598 and 1602 for Cardinal Pietro Aldobrandini, it was designed by Giacomo della Porta and completed by Carlo Maderno and Giovanni Fontana. Highlights include the spectacular water theater and panoramic gardens.
Villa Aldobrandini (Belvedere)
Overlooking the town from a hilltop, Villa Aldobrandini is one of Frascati’s most famous landmarks. Built between 1598 and 1602 for Cardinal Pietro Aldobrandini, it was designed by Giacomo della Porta and completed by Carlo Maderno and Giovanni Fontana. Highlights include the spectacular water theater and panoramic gardens.
Villa Falconieri
The oldest of the Tuscolan villas, Villa Falconieri was built in the mid-1500s by Bishop Alessandro Ruffini. It was later purchased by Orazio Falconieri, who entrusted Borromini with its renovation. Today, the villa hosts the Latin-language academy Vivarium Novum and is open during cultural events.
Villa Torlonia
Just steps from the town center, Villa Torlonia began as a small farm owned by Annibal Caro, a Renaissance writer. It was later expanded into a grand estate and now forms part of a large public park—perfect for relaxing walks among ancient trees and sculptures.
Villa Tuscolana
Built in the late 1500s by Cardinal Ruffini, Villa Tuscolana sits on the slopes of Monte Tuscolo, offering one of the best panoramic views in the region. Now a hotel and conference center, it allows guests to sleep and dine in a historic setting rich with character.
Experience the Castelli Romani with a Local Touch
Having delved into the rich tapestry of Frascati’s history, architecture, and culture, why not immerse yourself in its charm firsthand? At EmiTours, we offer curated experiences that go beyond the typical tourist path. Join us for a journey through the Castelli Romani, where you’ll savor authentic flavors, uncover hidden gems, and connect with the local spirit of the region. Let us guide you through an unforgettable adventure just beyond Rome’s doorstep.
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